Opposition raises fresh concerns over El-Rufai’s continued detention

By Jude Opara

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified its criticism of the Federal Government over the prolonged detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, alleging that the legal proceedings against him are politically motivated.
Paul Ibe, media aide to ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, claimed that El-Rufai’s continued detention reflects an attempt by the administration of President Bola Tinubu to punish political opponents who have distanced themselves from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Ibe noted that El-Rufai has spent 126 days in detention, describing the situation as evidence of what he termed a campaign of harassment and intimidation against the former governor following his exit from the APC.
According to Ibe, the legal process surrounding El-Rufai’s case lacks credibility and is aimed at keeping the ADC chieftain out of active politics ahead of the 2027 general elections. He further alleged that some individuals had advised El-Rufai to reconcile with President Tinubu, claiming this was being presented as a pathway to resolving his legal troubles.
The ADC candidate spokesman also questioned the court’s decision to adjourn the matter until September, arguing that the postponement reinforces suspicions of political interference.
Ibe additionally criticized the bail conditions imposed on El-Rufai, describing them as excessively stringent and effectively designed to prolong his detention despite the court’s grant of bail.
Neither the Federal Government nor the APC had responded to the allegations at the time of filing this report. The authorities have consistently maintained that ongoing criminal proceedings against public officials are conducted in accordance with the law and without political considerations.
The controversy adds another dimension to the growing political rivalry between the ruling APC and opposition parties as preparations for the 2027 elections gradually gather momentum.
The PDP spokesman accused the APC of repeatedly revisiting an issue that had already been settled by available evidence, noting that the ruling party had organised multiple press conferences on the matter.
The exchange underscores the growing political tension in Gombe State ahead of the 2027 elections, with both parties seeking to shape public perception over Pantami’s high-profile defection and its potential impact on the state’s political landscape.